ISSA Nutritionist Practice Exam

What type of formulation can help improve the absorption of vitamin A?

1. Water-based formulation

2. Oil-based formulation

3. Gel formulation

4. Protein-based formulation

The correct answer is: Oil-based formulation

Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin, which means that its absorption is significantly enhanced when it is consumed with dietary fats. Oil-based formulations provide a beneficial medium that facilitates the dissolution of these fat-soluble vitamins, promoting better absorption in the intestines. When incorporated into an oil-based formulation, vitamin A is more likely to be absorbed effectively, as this environment mimics the natural condition of vitamin A absorption in the body. In contrast, water-based formulations do not provide the necessary lipids that assist in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin A. Gel formulations might not contain sufficient fat content to improve absorption significantly, and while protein-based formulations may offer other dietary benefits, they do not specifically enhance the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Therefore, an oil-based formulation is the most effective choice for improving the absorption of vitamin A.